Collapsible Pedestal Attachment for a Portable Cooking Device and Associated Methods

ABSTRACT

A pedestal for a cooking device comprises a main body including a base having a plurality of leg receiving passageways formed therein, sidewalls extending upwardly from the base, a passageway formed in a medial portion of the base and fastener receiving passageways formed in at least one of the sidewalls. The pedestal also includes a plurality of legs to be detachably connected to the base of the main body. The base and the sidewalls of the main body are adapted to engage a bottom portion of a cooking device to elevate the cooking device. The pedestal is moveable between an assembled position and a collapsed position. The assembled position of the pedestal is defined as the plurality of legs being connected to the main body. The collapsed position of the pedestal is defined by the plurality of legs being detached from the main body and being carried by the main body so that the main body and the plurality of legs are arranged in a substantially flat configuration.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/330,031 titled Cooking Device And Associated Methods filed on Dec. 8, 2008 by the inventor of the present invention, which claimed the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/074,371 titled Backpacker Oven filed on Jun. 20, 2008 by the inventor of the present invention, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of cooking devices and, more particularly, to the field of attachments to portable cooking devices, and related methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the field of camping, there is a need for a lightweight, portable, folding cooking device. This is particularly necessary for backpacking applications. More specifically, when engaging in the activity of backpacking, space for transporting items necessary during wilderness camping comes at a premium. In addition to the size of an item, the weight of an item may also play a major role in determining whether or not the item may be carried in the backpack.

It is especially essential when engaging in the activity of backpacking to reduce weight to be carried by the user. Equipment should generally be compact when not in use so as to fit into the confines of a backpack. Of course, when backpacking, certain foods have not generally been available due to the need to bake such foods. For example, pizzas, biscuits, cookies, muffins or any other foods that could be baked at home are normally difficult to be baked in the wilderness, especially without use of a stove.

Most devices used for camping stove applications include a single burner oven apparatus. Other devices used for wilderness cooking applications may use wood as a heating fuel. In most wilderness areas, however, open fires are not permitted. Accordingly, several portable devices that may normally have been used for cooking applications may be prohibited in some wilderness areas.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,708,604 to Deichler, Jr. discloses a collapsible smoker and oven device. The device includes a center assembly having a rear panel and two side panels hingedly connected thereto. A front panel having a lower door, a medial door, and an upper door is hingedly connected to one of the side panels. The side panels include a plurality of vents and the unit may be collapsed flat. The fire box may be moved to various positions so that the device may be used as a grill, smoker or oven. This device, however, includes several loose pieces that may require a complicated assembly process.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,591,828 to Schneider discloses a collapsible camp oven, stove top and grill. More specifically, the unit includes a top, a bottom and sidewalls that are adapted to be positioned between the top and the bottom. Once collapsed, the device may be taken apart into several pieces and positioned to be contained within the top and bottom which interlock with one another. Similar to the device disclosed in the Deichler, Jr. '604 patent, this device may include several loose pieces and require a somewhat complicated assembly.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,921,229 to Blake discloses a portable cooking and heating device. The device includes a center assembly, and an external burner positioned adjacent the center assembly. The center assembly must be taken apart into several pieces in order to be collapsed. U.S. Pat. No. 6,546,845 to Lanzilli discloses a collapsible rotisserie grill and oven combination. The unit includes folding side panels that may be collapsed, but does not lie flat, and is likely not suitable for backpacking applications.

Many portable cooking devices are adapted to be positioned adjacent the ground, or upon a surface that it is being used. Depending on the fuel source that is used to heat the portable cooking device, it may be difficult to use the cooking device if it is not elevated. Accordingly, there is a need for a lightweight, functional cooking device for backpacking applications. More specifically, there exists a need for a collapsible cooking device that may be readily transported in a relatively small storage space and easily assembled with little complications and in a short amount of time. Further, there exists a need for a portable cooking device that may be assembled and disassembled while minimizing the possibility of losing loose parts. There also exists a need to elevate a portable cooking device when in use with a device that also takes up minimal space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing background, it is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a lightweight cooking device that is readily collapsible and may be stored in a small storage space. It is also an object of the present invention to provide a collapsible and portable cooking device that may be readily assembled and disassembled in a short period of time. It is further an object of the present invention to provide a cooking device that may be readily assembled and disassembled without the need of excessive loose parts. It is still further an object of the present invention to provide a pedestal to elevate a cooking device when in use.

These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention are provided by a pedestal for a cooking device comprising a main body and a plurality of legs. The main body may include a base having a plurality of leg receiving passageways formed therein, and sidewalls extending upwardly from the base. The plurality of legs are preferably detachably connected to the base of the main body.

The base and the sidewalls of the main body may be adapted to engage a bottom portion of the cooking device to elevate the cooking device. The plurality of legs may extend through the base of the main body so that a top portion thereof may be positioned above the base of the main body when each of the plurality of legs is connected to the base. A portion of the main body and a portion of each of the plurality of legs are adapted to detachably engage a lower portion of the cooking device. The pedestal may be moveable between an assembled position and a collapsed position. The assembled position may be defined as the plurality of legs being connected to the main body. The collapsed position may be defined by the plurality of legs being detached from the main body and being carried by the main body so that the main body and the plurality of legs are arranged in a substantially flat configuration.

The base of the main body may include a passageway formed therethrough. The passageway may be centered in the base and adapted to be positioned adjacent a bottom portion of the cooking device. Accordingly, when the cooking device is positioned to overlie the pedestal, the cooking device may advantageously be elevated, and the passageway advantageously provides access for a fuel source to provide heat the cooking device.

The plurality of legs may be threadably connected to the base of the main body. The pedestal may also include a respective plurality of threaded inserts carried by the base of the main body to threadably receive the respective plurality of legs. Accordingly, the plurality of legs may advantageously be connected to the main body in a number of different ways.

The pedestal may also advantageously have fastener receiving passageways formed in the sidewalls of the main body. The fastener receiving passageways may each be adapted to receive a fastener therethrough. The fastener preferably engages the fastener receiving passageway and a vent of the cooking device to fasten the cooking device to the pedestal.

The pedestal may be adapted to be carried by the cooking device in a substantially flat configuration when the cooking device is in a collapsed position and the pedestal is in the collapsed position. Accordingly, the pedestal of the present invention advantageously provides a user the ability to elevate a cooking device without the need for additional storage space in a backpack, i.e., the pedestal may advantageously be carried by the cooking device when in the collapsed position, thereby eliminating any need for additional space within a backpack.

A method aspect of the present invention is for using a pedestal to elevate a cooking device. The method may include moving the pedestal from a collapsed position defined by a plurality of legs being detached from the base of the main body, to an assembled position defined by the plurality of legs being connected to the main body. The method may also include fastening the pedestal to the cooking device when the pedestal is in the assembled position. The pedestal may be fastened to the cooking device using a plurality of fasteners to be passed through the fastener receiving passageways and engage a portion of the cooking device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the cooking device according to the present invention and being shown in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a hinge that connects a rear panel of a center assembly of the cooking device to opposing side panels of the center assembly according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a partial side elevation view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1 and showing a support connected to the side panel of the center assembly.

FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of the center assembly of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1 showing the side panels being moved from the expanded position to the collapsed position.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 6 taking through line 7-7.

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1 having the front panel removed.

FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the front panel of the center assembly of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of the front panel illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the cooking device in the collapsed position and arranged in a substantially flat configuration according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1 having the top panel removed.

FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a connection between the front panel and the side panels of the center assembly of the cooking device according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a partial side elevation view of a top panel of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 1 showing a connection between a top vent cover and the top panel.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a pedestal for a cooking device according to the present invention and being shown in the assembled position.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a pedestal for a cooking device according to the present invention in the collapsed position.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the pedestal illustrated in FIG. 15 and a cooking device being carried by the pedestal.

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the pedestal illustrated in FIG. 15 and a cooking device to be carried by the pedestal.

FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of a leg of the pedestal according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a partial perspective view of a threaded insert for receiving a leg being carried by a base of a main body of the pedestal according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a partial top plan view of a connection between the pedestal according to the present invention and a cooking device.

FIG. 22 is an exploded partial top plan view of the connection between the pedestal and the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is an exploded elevation view of a pedestal according to the present invention in a collapsed position and being carried by a cooking device positioned in a collapsed position.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a cooking device according to the present invention.

FIGS. 25-26 are side elevation views of tabs to hold sidewalls of the cooking device illustrated in FIG. 24 together.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout and prime notation is used to refer to like elements in alternate embodiments.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 11, a cooking device 10 according to the present invention is described in greater detail. The cooking device 10 includes a center assembly 12, a front panel 14 and a top panel 16. The center assembly 12 includes a rear panel 18 and a pair of opposing side panels 20 that are hingedly connected to the rear panel. As illustrated, it is preferable that a pair of hinges 22 is used to hingedly connect the side panels 20 to the rear panel 18. The hinge 22 is detailed in FIG. 3. The pair of hinges 22 is preferably positioned adjacent an upper portion of each of the side panels 20 and a lower portion of each of the side panels. Although a pair of hinges 22 is illustrated in the appended drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of hinges may be used to hingedly connect the pair of opposing side panels 20 to the rear panel 18.

The center assembly 12 is advantageously movable between an expanded position and a collapsed position. In the expanded position, the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 may be folded outwardly from the rear panel 18, and in the collapsed position, the side panels may be folded inwardly so that the side panels may be positioned adjacent the rear panel. The front panel 14 may be removably connected to the center assembly 12. More specifically, portions of the front panel 14 connect to end portions of the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12. The front panel is preferably defined by a front portion 46, and opposing side portions 48 connected to and extending outwardly from the front portion.

A lower portion of the side portion 48 of the front panel 14 preferably includes a passageway 50 formed therein. Similarly, an adjacent lower portion of each of the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 includes respective pins 52 connected thereto. The passageways 50 formed on the side portions 48 of the front panel 14 preferably align with the pins 52 on the side panels 20 of the center assembly when the front panel is connected to the center assembly 12. Accordingly, when connecting the front panel 14 to the center assembly 12, a user may align the pins 52 with the passageways 50, and may engage the pins with the passageways so that the pins and passageways align and matingly connect with one another. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the front panel 14 may be connected to the center assembly 12 by other means as well. For example, fasteners may be used to fasten the front panel to the center assembly.

As illustrated, for example, in FIG. 2, the top panel 16 may be removably connected to the center assembly 12. More specifically, the top panel may include a top 54 and sidewalls 56 extending downwardly therefrom. The sidewalls 56 of the top panel 16 preferably have slots 58 formed therein. The slots 58 divide the sidewalls 56 of the top panel 16 into opposing side portions and a medial portion. When the top panel 16 is positioned to overlie the center assembly 12, the medial portion of the sidewalls 56 of the top panel are preferably positioned adjacent an interior portion of the side panels 20 of the center assembly. Further, the opposing side portions of the sidewalls 56 of the top panel 54 are preferably positioned adjacent an exterior portion of the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12. This configuration advantageously allows the top panel 16 to be securely fastened to the center assembly 12 without the use of fasteners. In other words, the top panel 16 may be connected to the center assembly 12 by engaging the side portions of the top panel with upper portions of the center assembly. This configuration advantageously allows a user to readily assemble the cooking device 10.

The cooking device 10 may also include a plurality of supports 28. The plurality of supports may be connected to the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 using a permanent connection, such as a welded connection, for example. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the plurality of supports 28 may be fastened to the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 using removable connections. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 4, each of the supports 28 may include a shaft portion 60 and a flange portion 62 connected to the shaft portion. The shaft portion 60 may include a threaded opening. Further, the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 may include a plurality of fastener receiving passageways formed therein for receiving a fastener 30 to fasten the supports 28 to an interior portion thereof. The fasteners 30 may be provided by any number of fasteners such as thumb screws, push pins, or any other type of fastener that may be suitable for removably connecting the supports 28 to the center assembly 12.

The cooking device may also include a diffuser plate 24. The diffuser plate 24 may be carried by the center assembly 12 when the center assembly is in the expanded position. The diffuser plate 24 is preferably positioned adjacent a lower portion of the center assembly 12. The supports 28 are preferably arranged along the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 to support the diffuser plate 24. The diffuser plate 24 is, therefore, preferably carried by the lower most supports 28 that are fastened to the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12.

The cooking device 10 also illustratively includes a plurality of cooking surfaces 26 carried by the center assembly 12. The plurality of cooking surfaces 26 may, for example, be provided by cooking screens as understood by those skilled in the art. The cooking surfaces 26 are preferably positioned to overlie the diffuser plate 24. More specifically, and as perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 2, the cooking device 10 preferably includes at least three sets of supports. As discussed above, the lower most support 28 preferably carries the diffuser plate 24. The remaining supports 28 may be used to carry the cooking surfaces 26. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the cooking device 10 may include any number of supports 28, and that any number of cooking surfaces 26 may be used to accomplish the goals and features of the present invention. A plurality of cooking surfaces 26 advantageously allows a user multiple options for various cooking needs.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 5, the center assembly 12 preferably collapses to a substantially flat configuration. More specifically, the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 may be folded inwardly to be positioned adjacent the rear panel 18 of the center assembly. Accordingly, when in the collapsed position, the center assembly 12 is configured to be substantially flat. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 11, the center assembly 12, the front panel 14, the top panel 16, the diffuser plate 24, and the cooking surfaces 26 may be collapsed so that all of the above-referenced components may be transported in a substantially flat configuration. This advantageously allows a user to store the collapsed cooking device 10 in a substantially small area, such as a backpack, for example.

As perhaps best illustrated in FIGS. 2, 9-10, and 12, the cooking device 10 may include a handle 32 carried by the front panel 14. The handle 32 advantageously allows a user to engage a portion of the front panel 14 to move the front panel between opened and closed positions. The cooking device 10 also illustratively includes a thermometer 64 carried by one of the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12. The thermometer 64 is preferably removable so that the temperature within the cooking device 10 may be monitored by the user.

The rear panel 18 and side panels 20 of the center assembly 12, as well as the front panel 14 illustratively include a plurality of vents 34. More particularly, each of the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 preferably includes a lower side panel vent 40 and a plurality of upper side panel vents 42. The lower side panel vent 40 is preferably larger than the upper side panel vents 42. As illustrated, the lower side panel vent 40 is preferably positioned adjacent a lower portion of the side panel 20 of the center assembly 12. Further, the upper side panel vents 42 are preferably provided by cylindrical passageways positioned to overlie the lower side panel vent 40.

Further, the rear panel 18 of the center assembly 12 preferably includes a lower rear panel vent 74 and a plurality of upper rear panel vents 76. The lower rear panel vent 74 is preferably larger than the upper rear panel vents 76. As illustrated, the lower rear panel vent 74 is preferably positioned adjacent a lower portion of the rear panel 18 of the center assembly 12. The upper rear panel vents 76 are preferably provided by cylindrical passageways positioned to overlie the lower rear panel vent 74.

Similarly, the front panel 14 of the cooking device 10 includes a lower front panel vent 36 and a plurality of upper front panel vents 38. The lower front panel vent 36 is preferably positioned adjacent a lower portion of the front panel 14, and the upper front panel vents 38 are preferably provided by cylindrical passageways and positioned to overlie the lower front panel vent 36. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of vents 34 may be provided in the front panel 14 and side panels 20, and that the vents may be any shape or size to accomplish the goals and features of the present invention.

Referring now additionally to FIGS. 9 and 10, the front panel 14 of cooking device 10 is described in greater detail. The front panel 14 may include an upper front panel 66 and a lower front panel 68. The upper front panel 66 is preferably hingedly connected to the lower front panel 68. The hinge 70 connecting the upper front panel 66 and lower front panel 68 advantageously allows the upper front panel to be defined as a door. The hinge 70 is preferably positioned adjacent an exterior portion of the front panel 14 so that the upper front panel 66 may open outwardly toward a user.

As perhaps best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the top panel 16 of the cooking device 10 may also include a top panel vent 44 formed therein. A top vent cover 72 may be positioned to overlie the top panel vent 44. More specifically, the top panel vent 44 is preferably circular, and the top vent cover 72 is also preferably circular and connected to the top panel 16 so that the top vent cover may move between opened and closed positions. The top vent cover 72 may be connected to the top of the top panel 16 using a fastener as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 14. In the closed position, the top vent cover 72 is positioned to overlie the top vent 44 so that no portion of the top vent is exposed. In the opened position, the top vent cover 72 may be positioned so that any portion of the top panel vent 44 may be exposed, providing a vent through the top panel 16.

The cooking device of the present invention 10 advantageously enhances ease of use and longevity by minimizing the number of parts necessary for assembly and use. For example, the plurality of supports 28 preferably include pins that matingly connect to passageways formed in the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12. As disclosed above, the supports 28 may also be permanently connected to the side panels. Similarly, the front panel 14 is preferably connected to the center assembly 12 using pins connected to the center assembly to also advantageously minimize the number of parts necessary to assemble and use the cooking device.

The present invention contemplates the use of fasteners to fasten the supports 28 to the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 and to connect the front panel 14 to the center assembly. In such cases, the fasteners may, for example, be provided by thumb screws. Thumb screws are advantageously easily transportable and may be readily replaced should any be lost. Further, thumb screws may advantageously be used to fasten the supports 28 and the front panel 14 to the center assembly 12 without the use of tools.

The components of the cooking device 10 are preferably made of an aluminum material. More specifically, the preferred material is 0.025 aluminum alloy, but those having skill in the art will appreciate that any other aluminum alloy bearing similar characteristics ma also be used. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the use of aluminum is advantageous as it is light in weight. Accordingly, any other similar lightweight material having properties similar to aluminum may also be used to accomplish the goals and features of the present invention. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the hinge 22 holding the side panels 20 of the center assembly 12 to the rear panel 18 of the center assembly is preferably provided by a butterfly hinge. Those skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that any other type of hinge may also be used to accomplish the goals and features of the present invention.

As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 11, when in the collapsed position, the center assembly 12 is folded to a substantially flat configuration. As also illustrated in FIG. 11, the front panel 14, diffuser plate 24, cooking surfaces 26, center assembly 12, and top panel 18 may all be positioned adjacent one another so that the cooking device 10 may be transported in a substantially flat configuration and only occupy minimal space. More specifically, the preferred arrangement allows the front panel 14 to act as a bottom surface, while the diffuser plate 24 and cooking surfaces 26 may be carried by the front panel. The collapsed center assembly 12 may be positioned to overlie the cooking surfaces 26 and diffuser plate 24, and the top panel 16 may be positioned to overlie the center assembly. Upon arranging the cooking device components as described above, the entire device is ready to be transported in a substantially flat configuration, suitable for a backpack to be used in camping applications.

A method aspect of the present invention is for using a cooking device 10. The method may include moving the center assembly 12 from the collapsed position to an expanded position and connecting the front panel 14 to the center assembly 12 using a plurality of fasteners 30. The method may also include connecting the top panel 16 to upper portions of the center assembly 12. The method may further include disassembling the top panel 16 and the front panel 14 from the center assembly 12, and collapsing the center assembly 12 so that the collapsed center assembly, front panel, top panel, diffuser plate, and cooking surfaces may be transported in a substantially flat configuration.

Referring now additionally to FIGS. 15-23, a pedestal 100 for a cooking device 10 is now described in greater detail. The pedestal 100 preferably includes a main body 102 and a plurality of legs 108 detachably connected to the main body. More specifically, the main body 102 may include a base 104 having a plurality of leg receiving passageways 114 formed therein. The main body 102 may also include sidewalls 106 extending upwardly from the base 104. The main body 102 preferably has a polygonal shape, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that the main body 102 may have any shape suitable for receiving a cooking device 10. Accordingly, it is preferable that the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 have a shape similar to a shape of a bottom portion of the cooking device to that it may be readily adapted to receive the cooking device. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although a polygonal shape of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 and of the cooking device 10 are illustrated in the appended figures, the main body of the pedestal and the cooking device may have any shape. The plurality of legs 108 are preferably detachably connected to the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. More specifically, each of the plurality of legs 108 is adapted to engage a leg receiving passageway 114 formed in the base 104 of the main body 102.

The base 104 of the main body 102 is adapted to engage a bottom portion of a cooking device 10 to elevate the cooking device. It is desirable to elevate the cooking device so that a fuel source may be positioned beneath the cooking device to provide heat thereto. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 15, a passageway 116 is formed in the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. The passageway 116 preferably has an arcuate shape, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that although an arcuate shape is illustrated, the passageway may have any shape. The passageway 116 formed in the medial portion of the base 104 advantageously allows a fuel source to be positioned beneath the pedestal 100 and provide heat to the cooking device 10 when the cooking device engages the pedestal, as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 17.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, the plurality of legs 18 preferably extend through the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. Accordingly, a top portion 110 of each of the legs 108 may be positioned above the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 when each of the plurality of legs is connected to the base of the main body. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 18, when the plurality of legs 108 are engaged with the main body 102 of the pedestal 100, the top portion 110 of each of the legs may engage a leg receiving passageway 114 on a bottom portion of the cooking device 10. Accordingly, the top portion 110 of each of the legs 108 is adapted to detachably engage a lower portion of the cooking device 10 to advantageously provide a more secure connection between the cooking device 10 and the pedestal 100.

FIG. 15 illustrates the pedestal 100 in the assembled position. The assembled position is preferably defined by the plurality of legs 108 being connected to the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. FIG. 16 illustrates the pedestal 100 being positioned in a collapsed position. The collapsed position is preferably defined by the plurality of legs 108 being detached from the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 and carried thereby.

Accordingly, and with specific reference to FIG. 16, when the pedestal 100 is moved from the assembled position to the collapsed position, the main body 102 and plurality of legs 108 may be arranged in a substantially flat configuration. This advantageously allows the pedestal 100 to be readily carried along with the cooking device 10 in a substantially flat configuration. For example, and as perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 23, when the cooking device 10 is collapsed and arranged into a substantially flat configuration, the pedestal 100, being positioned in the collapsed position and having the plurality of legs 108 carried by the main body 102, may also be configured in a substantially flat configuration and carried by the collapsed cooking device. This advantageously allows a user to readily fit the collapsed cooking device 10 and pedestal 100 in a backpack for backpacking applications. More specifically, a user of the cooking device 10 would not need any additional room to also carry the pedestal 100 since the pedestal, when in the collapsed position, may be carried by the cooking device.

Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 19 and 20, additional features of the pedestal 100 according to the present invention are now described in greater detail. More specifically, each of the plurality of legs 108 may be threadably connected to the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. As perhaps best illustrated in FIG. 19, a top portion 110 of each of the legs 108 may be threaded. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the top portion 110 of each of the plurality of legs 108 may be threaded for any desirable length to carry out the objectives, features and advantages of the present invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, the base 104 of the main body 102 of the pedestal may include a plurality of threaded inserts 118 to receive the threaded portion of each of the plurality of legs 108. More specifically, the threaded inserts 118 may be integrally formed with the base 104 of the main body 102. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the threaded inserts 118 may also be detachably connected to the base 104 of the main body 102. Further, the present invention contemplates that the threaded portion of each of the legs 108 may connect directly to the base 104 of the main body 102.

The threaded inserts 118 preferably extend above the base 104 of the main body 102. This configuration advantageously allows a top portion of each of the threaded inserts 118 to illustratively engage a portion of the cooking device 10. More specifically, a bottom portion of the cooking device 10 may include pedestal receiving passageways formed therein to receive the threaded inserts 118. When the cooking device 10 is positioned to overlie the pedestal 100, the top portion of the threaded inserts 118 may engage the pedestal receiving passageways. This configuration advantageously enhances a connection between the pedestal 100 and the cooking device 10.

Although a threaded connection is illustrated in appended figures, those skilled in the art will appreciate that any other connection may be used to connect the plurality of legs 108 to the base 104 of the main body 102. For example, it is contemplated that a top portion of each of the legs may include a passageway formed therein and a key, or lock, may engage the passageway to fix the leg in place after It has been engaged with the base 104 of the main body 102. The top of each of the legs 108 may also include a snap lock that is spring loaded to allow for the legs to be fixed in place after engaged to the base 104 of the main body. In such a configuration, it is desirable for a user to unlock the leg 108 by disengaging the snap lock so that the leg can be disengaged from the base 104 of the main body 102.

Referring now more specifically to FIGS. 18 and 21-22, additional features of the pedestal 100 according to the present invention are now described in greater detail. More specifically, the sidewalls 106 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 preferably include a plurality of fastener receiving passageways 120 formed therein. As illustrated, it is preferable that one fastener receiving passageway 120 be formed in each of the sidewalls 106 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. Those having skill in the art, however, will appreciate that any number of fastener receiving passageways 120 may be formed in the sidewalls 106 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100. The fastener receiving passageways 120 are each adapted to receive a fastener 122 there through. The fastener 122 preferably engages the fastener receiving passageway 120 formed in the sidewalls 106 of the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 and also a vent of the cooking device 10. This configuration advantageously enhances a connection between the cooking device 10 and the pedestal 100.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 23, another feature of the pedestal 100 and cooking device 10 according to the present invention is now described in greater detail. As illustrated, when the pedestal 100 is in the collapsed position, it may be adapted to be carried by the cooking device, also in the collapsed position, in a substantially flat configuration. Accordingly, when both the cooking device 10 and the pedestal 100 are in the collapsed positions, the collapsed pedestal may be carried by the collapsed cooking device in a substantially flat configuration to advantageously occupy a smaller amount of space when being carried in a backpacking application.

A method aspect of the present invention is directed to using a pedestal 100 to elevate a cooking device 10. The method may include moving the pedestal 100 from the collapsed position to an assembled position. The step of moving the pedestal 100 from the collapsed position to the assembled position includes connecting the plurality of legs 108 to the main body 102. As previously discussed, the plurality of legs 108 may have a top portion 110 that is threaded. The threaded portion 12 of the legs 108 may be used to threadably connect the legs to the main body 102 of the pedestal 100 through the leg receiving passageways 114 formed therein. Further, the plurality of legs 108 may be threadably connected to threaded inserts 118 carried by the base 104 of the pedestal 100.

The method may also include fastening the pedestal 100 to the cooking device 10 when the pedestal is in the assembled position. The step of fastening the pedestal 100 to the cooking device 10 includes passing a fastener 122 through a fastener receiving passageway 120 formed in the sidewall 106 of the main body 102 of the pedestal and engaging the fastener 122 with a portion of the cooking device 10. More specifically, it is desirable that the fastener 122 engages a vent of the cooking device 10 to secure the cooking device to the pedestal 100. Accordingly, when the cooking device 10 is carried by the pedestal 100, the cooking device is advantageously elevated to provide an area for a fuel source to be positioned there under to heat an interior portion of the cooking device.

The components of the pedestal 100 are preferably made of an aluminum material. More specifically, the preferred material is 0.025 aluminum alloy, but those having skill in the art will appreciate that any other aluminum alloy bearing similar characteristics may also be used. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the use of aluminum is advantageous as it is light in weight. Accordingly, any other similar lightweight material having properties similar to aluminum may also be used to accomplish the goals and features of the present invention.

Referring now additionally to FIGS. 24-26, an alternate embodiment of the cooking device 10′ is now described in greater detail. In the alternate embodiment of the cooking device 10′, the center assembly 12′ includes separated sidewalls. The separated sidewalls are connected to one another using a plurality of tabs that may matingly engage one another. Similarly, the front panel 14′ may be connected to the sidewalls of the center assembly 12′ using a similar tab configuration. The top panel 16′ illustratively includes tab receiving passageways formed therein. The tab receiving passageways may be adapted to receive tabs formed oh top portions of the center assembly 12′ and the front panel 14′.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. 

1. A pedestal for a cooking device comprising: a main body including a base having a plurality of leg receiving passageways formed therein, and sidewalls extending upwardly from the base; and a plurality of legs to be detachably connected to the base of said main body; wherein the base and the sidewalls of said main body are adapted to engage a bottom portion of the cooking device to elevate the cooking device; wherein said plurality of legs extend through the base of said main body so that a top portion thereof is positioned above the base of said main body when each of said plurality of legs is connected to the base; wherein a portion of said main body and a portion of each of said plurality of legs are adapted to detachably engage a lower portion of the cooking device; and wherein the pedestal is moveable between an assembled position and a collapsed position, the assembled position being defined as said plurality of legs being connected to said main body, the collapsed position being defined by said plurality of legs being detached from said main body and being carried by said main body so that said main body and said plurality of legs are arranged in a substantially flat configuration.
 2. A pedestal according to claim 1 wherein the base of said main body includes a passageway formed therethrough.
 3. A pedestal according to claim 2 wherein the passageway is centered in the base and adapted to be positioned adjacent a bottom portion of the cooking device.
 4. A pedestal according to claim 1 wherein said plurality of legs are threadably connected to the base of said main body.
 5. A pedestal according to claim 4 further comprising a respective plurality of threaded inserts carried by the base of said main body to threadably receive the respective plurality of legs.
 6. A pedestal according to claim 1 further comprising fastener receiving passageways formed in the sidewalls of said main body.
 7. A pedestal according to claim 6 wherein the fastener receiving passageways are each adapted to receive a fastener therethrough and wherein the fastener engages the fastener receiving passageway and a vent of the cooking device to fasten the cooking device to the pedestal.
 8. A pedestal according to claim 1 wherein the pedestal is adapted to be carried by the cooking device in a substantially flat configuration when the cooking device is in a collapsed position and the pedestal is in the collapsed position.
 9. A pedestal for a cooking device comprising: a main body including a base having a plurality of leg receiving passageways formed therein, sidewalls extending upwardly from the base, a passageway formed in a medial portion of the base and fastener receiving passageways formed in at least one of the sidewalls; and a plurality of legs to be detachably threadably connected to the base of said main body; wherein the base and the sidewalls of the main body are adapted to engage a bottom portion of a cooking device to elevate the cooking device; and wherein the pedestal is moveable between an assembled position and a collapsed position, the assembled position being defined as said plurality of legs being connected to said main body, the collapsed position being defined by said plurality of legs being detached from said main body and being carried by said main body so that said main body and said plurality of legs are arranged in a substantially flat configuration.
 10. A pedestal according to claim 9 further comprising a respective plurality of threaded inserts carried by the base of said main body to threadably receive the respective plurality of legs.
 11. A pedestal according to claim 10 wherein said respective plurality of threaded inserts extend upwardly from the base of said main body to engage a portion of the cooking device when the cooking device is carried by the pedestal.
 12. A pedestal according to claim 9 wherein the fastener receiving passageways are each adapted to receive a fastener therethrough and wherein the fastener engages the fastener receiving passageway and a vent of the cooking device to fasten the cooking device to the pedestal.
 13. A pedestal according to claim 9 wherein the pedestal is adapted to be carried by the cooking device in a substantially flat configuration when the cooking device is in a collapsed position and the pedestal is in the collapsed position.
 14. A pedestal according to claim 9 wherein the base and the sidewalls of said main body are adapted to engage a bottom portion of a cooking device to elevate the cooking device.
 15. A method of using a pedestal to elevate a cooking device, the pedestal comprising a main body including a base having a plurality of leg receiving passageways formed therein, sidewalls extending upwardly from the base, a passageway formed in a medial portion of the base and fastener receiving passageways formed in at least one of the sidewalls, the method comprising: moving the pedestal from a collapsed position defined by a plurality of legs being detached from the base of the main body and carried by the main body, to an assembled position defined by the plurality of legs being connected to the main body; and fastening the pedestal to the cooking device when the pedestal is in the assembled position, wherein fastening the pedestal to the cooking device includes passing at least one fastener through at least one fastener receiving passageway to engage a portion of the cooking device.
 16. A method according to claim 15 wherein the plurality of legs are connected to the main body when the pedestal is in the assembled position using a threaded connection.
 17. A method according to claim 16 wherein the base of the main body includes a respective plurality of threaded inserts to threadably receive the respective plurality of legs.
 18. A method according to claim 17 wherein the respective plurality of threaded inserts extend upwardly from the base of the main body to engage a portion of the cooking device when the cooking device is carried by the pedestal.
 19. A method according to claim 15 wherein fastening the pedestal to the cooking device includes engaging the fastener with a vent of the cooking device to fasten the cooking device to the pedestal.
 20. A method according to claim 15 wherein the pedestal is adapted to be carried by the cooking device in a substantially flat configuration when the cooking device is in a collapsed position and the pedestal is in the collapsed position. 